Tri-Coloured Bat

perimyotis subflavus

The Tri-Colored Bat (Perimyotis subflavus), formerly known as the Eastern Pipistrelle, is a small, fascinating nocturnal mammal native to eastern North America. Renowned for its distinctive, subtly patterned fur and erratic flight, this species plays a vital ecological role as an insectivore, consuming large quantities of agricultural pests and nuisance insects. Despite its widespread historical range, the Tri-Colored Bat faces severe population declines primarily due to White-nose Syndrome, a devastating fungal disease, making it a species of significant conservation concern. Its unique hibernation patterns and foraging strategies offer a glimpse into the complex adaptations required for survival in diverse environments.

Habitat: Found in a variety of forested habitats, particularly deciduous and mixed forests near water bodies, and often hibernating in caves and abandoned mines.

Appearance

The Tri-Colored Bat is one of the smallest bat species in eastern North America, typically measuring 7-10 cm in body length. Its most distinguishing feature is its tricolored fur, which has dark bases, yellowish-tan middle sections, and brownish tips, giving it a mottled, almost frosted appearance. Its forearms and fingers are noticeably pink, contrasting with its reddish-brown flight membranes. It possesses a small, delicate snout, small ears, and a short, blunt tragus, making it visually distinct from other bat species.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassMammaliaOrderChiropteraFamilyVespertilionidaeGenusPerimyotis

Tri-Coloured Bat

Interesting facts

During summer, Tri-Colored Bats often roost singly or in small groups in the foliage of trees, hanging inconspicuously among leaves.

Females typically give birth to twins, a relatively rare trait among North American bat species which often have single pups.

The Tri-Colored Bat was originally known as the Eastern Pipistrelle, but recent genetic studies led to its reclassification into the genus Perimyotis.

This bat is one of the first species to emerge in the evening, sometimes even before sunset, making it a potential early spot for bat watchers.

Special abilities

The Tri-Colored Bat utilizes sophisticated echolocation, emitting high-frequency sounds and interpreting the echoes to construct a detailed 'sound map' of its surroundings, allowing for precise navigation and hunting in complete darkness.

During winter months, these bats undergo a prolonged period of torpor known as hibernation, dramatically lowering their metabolic rate, heart rate, and body temperature to conserve energy in cold caves and mines where food is scarce.

Known for its slow, highly erratic flight pattern, the Tri-Colored Bat is an agile aerial hunter, capable of swiftly changing direction mid-air to intercept and capture small flying insects with impressive precision.

Measurements & details

Length: 7-10 cm
Wingspan: 21-26 cm
Weight: 0.004-0.011 kg
Lifespan: 8-15 years
Top Speed: 25 km/h
Incubation: 44-47 days
Migration Distance: 300 km

Diet & Feeding

The Tri-Colored Bat is an obligate insectivore, preying on a variety of small, soft-bodied flying insects. It plays a crucial role in controlling insect populations.

Primary Foods

Moths
Beetles
Mosquitoes
Flies
Leafhoppers
Small Hymenoptera

Foraging Method

Foraging

Ecological connections

parasite

White-nose Syndrome Fungus

Pseudogymnoascus destructans

Fungal pathogen that causes White-nose Syndrome, a devastating disease of hibernating bats.

eaten by

Eastern Screech Owl

Megascops asio

Potential predator during active seasons, especially at night.

hunts

Mosquito

Culicidae (family)

Prey for the bat, important part of its diet.

Traits

No trait badges are assigned for this object yet.

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

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Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

No special safety notes yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Tri-Coloured Bat?

The easiest way to identify Tri-Coloured Bat is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.

How long is Tri-Coloured Bat?

7-10 cm

What is Tri-Coloured Bat's wingspan?

21-26 cm

How much does Tri-Coloured Bat weigh?

0.004-0.011 kg

How long does Tri-Coloured Bat live?

8-15 years

How fast can Tri-Coloured Bat move?

25 km/h

What does Tri-Coloured Bat eat?

The Tri-Colored Bat is an obligate insectivore, preying on a variety of small, soft-bodied flying insects. It plays a crucial role in controlling insect populations.

Where is Tri-Coloured Bat usually found?

Found in a variety of forested habitats, particularly deciduous and mixed forests near water bodies, and often hibernating in caves and abandoned mines.